5. Remove from heat and stir in macaroni. Pour into a greased 2-quart rectangular baking dish.

6. To make topping, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat; stir in bread crumbs and remove from heat. Sprinkle cheese evenly over macaroni, then sprinkle with bread crumb mixture. Bake in a 350 degrees F oven for 30 minutes. Let cool completely, then cover and refrigerate overnight.

7. The next day, cut casserole lengthwise down the middle, then across into 1-inch bars.

8. For breading, set up three bowls: in one, combine flour and cayenne; beat eggs in the second bowl, and place bread crumbs in the third. Dredge macaroni bars in flour, then egg, then bread crumbs, and place on a baking sheet. Work quickly; don't over handle. Let bars rest in refrigerator 20 minutes to set crumbs.

9. Heat several inches of oil in a deep-fryer to 350 degrees F. Fry bars, a few at a time, 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown.